Falls are common for older people and can result in fractures and more serious injuries. In a study of 165 people over 65 assessed as being at risk of falling, attending weekly exercise class combined with doing ancillary exercises at home made a difference. Their balance improved and the rate of falling was reduced.

If you stay physically active you are likely to stay independent and happy for longer, as you’ll feel stronger, more confident and more able to get involved in life.

They increase your chances of living longer and reduce your risk of disability. That’s according to a 20 year study in the US - with similar findings from a more recent review of research studies, published in 2016.

This may help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Taking part in leisure activities has been associated with a lower risk of dementia. Reading, playing board games, playing musical instruments and dancing all seem to help. However, it isn’t yet clear whether the leisure activities lower the risk of dementia or whether people become less inclined to take part in leisure activities during the preclinical phase (i.e. before the symptoms became obvious).

Having said this a 2016 review of published research concluded, 'There is increasing evidence that participation in cognitively stimulating leisure activities may contribute to a reduction of risk of dementia and cognitive impairment in later life.'

So how can we keep mentally active?

Eat well – a Mediterranean diet seems to be good for the brain, according to systematic review of the evidence published in 2016 (although this explains that most studies show an association between a Mediterranean diet and reduced risk of cognitive impairment and dementia, rather than proven cause and effect).

Stay socially active – keep up with your family and friends, join a book club, choir, amateur dramatics or film club. Even online interaction is better than none.

Go out with friends – many museums, galleries, parks and city centres are still free.

Take up a new interest or renew old hobbies– like arts and crafts, cooking, gardening, genealogy and conservation - or if you'd like to combine mental and physical activity, options like walking football.

Use your brain in a different way – learn a new language or musical instrument, improve your IT skills, join an adult education class, do crosswords.

Working full time or volunteering beyond retirement age helps maintain functional health – according to a study in the US. While a 2014 review of 73 research studies found a recurring association between volunteering and reduced symptoms of depression, better self reported health and longer life.

This probably also helps maintain or create a new identity within the community.